McKenna’s Florist, at 520 Boswell Ave. in Norwich, has been in operation since 1942. Once owned by Jack McKenna, the shop is now run by Michael Rankowitz. and he has been with the company since 1996.

Although Rankowitz possesses a degree in history from the University of Connecticut, he found that working in retail was becoming his forte. He is supervisor to nine employees who work collectively to create a popular and successful enterprise.

McKenna’s Florist is a business that receives plants and flowers from all over the world. Merchandise arrives from Israel, Australia, Holland, and South America, and every week they offer five different colors of roses alone.

Orchids sold at the flower shop are imported from Thailand. Gladiolas and dahlias are from Willimantic and callas come from from Jewett City.

At McKenna’s a dozen roses cost $80, but the bulk of its income stems from weddings and funerals. Christmas and Mother’s Day are also holidays that provide much of their business.

The flower industry Rankowitz describes as “touchy-feely” with which the pandemic has interfered. McKenna’s Florist closed its doors to the public from the months of March through May out of respect for the coronaviris crisis. Rankowitz and his wife, a nurse, felt obliged to remain closed during that time out of concern for their patrons’ safety.

McKenna’s Florist is glad to be serving the public once again, and hours of operation are 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. For more information, call (860) 887-2479.

Lisa Shasha lives in Norwich.

Taking Care of Business is a regular feature in The Times. To contribute, email times@theday.com.